Saved: Smithy Wood

After more than six years of campaigning, the threat of destruction looming over Smithy Wood has finally passed. We have received notice that the application for a motorway service station within the wood’s ancient setting has been withdrawn. We’re delighted!

That’s four more hectares of ancient woodland saved from the jaws of unnecessary and harmful development.  Sitting alongside the M1 motorway at junction 35, north of Sheffield, Smithy Wood has history dating back at least 850 years.

This victory is due to all our supporters and particularly those who have taken part in our campaigns over the years. By putting pressure on Sheffield City Council and Extra Motorway Services, your voices have saved precious Smithy Wood.

And let’s not forget all the local campaigners who have worked so tirelessly to save the wood, including:

• Sheffield Environmental
• Cowley Residents Action Group
• Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust
• former MP Angela Smith.

There is no justification for any development in Smithy Wood. A nearby service station has been approved and ancient woodland is protected by national planning policy. That said, we’ll be keeping a watchful eye on Smithy Wood and the local area to make sure these ancient woods are protected for good.